Plans have been officially revealed to partially rebuild Manchester's historic Hotspur Press, following the devastating fire that tore through the Georgian building in the summer of 2024.
From Ashes to Renewal: The Development Plan
The blaze on 23 June 2024 engulfed the remaining structure of Medlock Mill, a site that had stood abandoned since its closure as a printing press in 1996. Developer Manner, which had already received planning permission in May 2024 for a 35-storey student accommodation tower incorporating the original facade, has now confirmed it will proceed with its vision for the site.
Richard James, Managing Director at Manner, stated: "After such a tragic period for The Hotspur Press, we are pleased to be able to continue this iconic building's legacy by delivering on our most recent vision for the site." He emphasised the company's commitment to the city and local community through this regeneration project.
Preserving Manchester's Heritage
At the core of the new proposal is a faithful reinstatement of the lost elevations. A brick edifice will be constructed up to the fourth floor, designed to mirror the original mill's appearance.
Stephen Hodder, founder of Hodder + Partners, explained the meticulous approach: "Together with Heritage Architecture we have forensically examined the elevations that have been lost and their detail. The revised proposals entail a reinstatement of these as faithfully as is possible."
Key heritage elements being preserved include:
- Using traditional handmade bricks and brick bonds
- Replicating the mill's original architectural features
- Reusing any salvageable materials in the new scheme
- Remaking and reinstating the iconic Hotspur Press and Percy Brothers signs in their original positions
The Path Forward for the Iconic Site
The project's journey to this point has seen several pivotal moments. An application to list the building was rejected by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy in January 2025. Furthermore, in May 2025, Manner decided to alter its design from brick cladding to a metal-finish, a change that preceded the fire.
Manner has announced that a new planning application will be submitted to Manchester City Council by the end of 2025. Should it receive approval, redevelopment work is expected to commence within the following year, marking a new chapter for this prominent city landmark.
